Catalyst fund
Status
ACTIVE
Global HQ
Boston, United States
Countries of investment
- Kenya
- Nigeria
- Mexico
- India
- Colombia
- South Africa
Investment stages
- Pre-Seed
- Seed
- Series A
Industries
- Fintech
- Climate Tech
- SaaS
About
Catalyst Fund is a pre-seed venture capital fund and accelerator that invests in and supports inclusive technology startups in emerging markets. Their mission is to back founders building affordable, accessible, and appropriate solutions that improve the resilience of underserved communities.
Catalyst Fund is a pre-seed venture capital fund and accelerator that invests in and supports inclusive technology startups in emerging markets. Their mission is to back founders building affordable, accessible, and appropriate solutions that improve the resilience of underserved communities.
Investment Thesis
Catalyst Fund is a pre-seed VC fund and accelerator backing inclusive tech innovators in emerging markets, with a focus on Africa, Latin America, and South Asia. They invest in mission-driven founders building solutions for underserved communities. Their unique approach combines capital with bespoke, hands-on venture-building support from in-house experts and access to a global network of investors and corporate partners to de-risk startups at the earliest stage.
Manager's Experience
The managing partners, Maelis Carraro and Aaron Fu, each bring over 15 years of experience in impact investing and venture capital focused on emerging markets. Their backgrounds include leadership roles at BFA Global and co-founding other Africa-focused seed funds, demonstrating deep expertise in fintech and climate tech. The team combines operational and investment experience to support pre-seed stage companies.
Team
Maelis Carraro - Managing Partner
Maximillian Spelmeyer - Managing Partner
Thea Anderson - Director
Aaron T. Fu - Venture Partner
Ashley Lewis - Venture Partner
Sneha Aggarwal - Investment Principal
Dario Giuliani - Head of Research
Jane del Ser - Head of Program
Portfolio
Cowrywise
Chipper Cash
FarMart
Lami
PocketFin
Power
Wasoko
Wellahealth
Britam
Indifi
Ozé
Sokowatch
WorldCover